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Higgins, Gillibrand React to Collins Staying on Ballot

UB's Neiheisel predicts uphill climb still for McMurray

Buffalo, NY (WBEN) Democrats in the WNY congressional delegation are reacting to the news Congressman Chris Collins has decided to stay on the GOP ballot in November.

Congressman Brian Higgins says "It seemed he was cooperating but something happened in the last few days that changed all that," says Higgins. "He will remain on the ballot, and that's an issue I think."

"He doesn't have committee assignments anymore, and it won't be adjudicated before the November election, so it's not going to change. So it appears Chris Collins will be in congress until the end of the year," notes Higgins. He says Nate McMurray will have the financial backing to unseat Collins.

Senator Kirsten Gillibrand says she worked to pass the STOCK Act, banning insider trading by members of Congress. As for Collins deciding to stay on the ballot, "I don't know his motivations. I know no one is above the law and voters will have a chance to have a say in the issue," says Gillibrand. "We're supposed to be public servants first, and allegations show he was putting financial gains for family and friends first."

Does it get easier for McMurray? UB's Jake Neiheisel believes only a little bit. "McMurray looks like a national Democrat, however he's still in a bit of a mismatch in NY27, and provided Republicans keep turnout up, it's still an uphill battle," says Neiheisel.